NikosTsiaxirasIGrec

In Loving Memory: Rest in Peace, Nikos Tsiaxiras

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Unfortunately, one of the owners featured in my book, Nikos Tsiaxiras, passed away suddenly on April 14, 2016. My heart broke at hearing this news. Too young, too soon. At the memorial on Sunday, May 15, we had a chance to say goodbye. I heard many stories, about who he was as a husband, father, businessman, and friend… He touched so many lives, whether through his warm smile, delicious food, or beautiful music.

I feel so incredibly honored that I was able to tell Nikos’ story. I consider myself lucky to have met this kind and caring man. He touched so many lives, and he has impacted mine, as well. Nikos, you will always be remembered. Rest in peace.

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JessicaFlavorsofLife

A Look at the Emotional, Mental, and Physical Aspects of Publishing a Book

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Someone needs to pinch me. I cannot believe this day has arrived! After two and a half years of full-time work, I received the first shipment of books on Wednesday, May 4, 2016. I just about dropped to the pavement. I couldn’t believe after all these years – from the initial idea and interviews to research, transcriptions, writing, editing, and design – that I was holding Flavors of Life in my own two hands. Writing a book is one thing, but many do not know what goes into publishing and the behind-the-scenes work. The whole process is extensive, and I’d like to share my experiences – briefly – in this post.

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travelinspires

How Does Travel Inspire You? Join Anywhere Workday and CultureTrav for a Special #TravelInspires Chat

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This Wednesday – and for the entire month of April – #CultureTrav is teaming up with Anywhere Workday. In light of recent world events, we are talking about how travel inspires us using the hashtag #TravelInspires. The chat will take place today at 2 p.m. EDT / 8 p.m. CET. We want to create a deeper connection and truly discover how travel can make this world a better place. Thank you to Anywhere Workday for allowing us to join this inspiring initiative! We are looking forward to hearing all of your stories and perspectives later today.

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Books That Inspire The #CultureTrav Community

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Books, books, books! When I was little, I used to stay up all night reading, practically devouring novel after novel. Not much has changed now that I’m an adult. I enjoy reading in my spare time and am even part of a book club here in the Netherlands. Additionally, I am a writer and soon-to-be author and have many writer friends. Therefore, when Erik Scalavino suggested we talk about books for an upcoming #CultureTrav, I was all in. The discussion on Thursday, March 24 was inspirational! It is great to see so many book lovers in the world, especially those that love to travel, too. Following the chat, I compiled the names of all the books and authors mentioned, listed in this post.

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What’s So Special About February 14, 2016?

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Today, on Sunday, February 14, 2016, Jessica Lipowski raises a glass to honor three special milestones: Valentine’s Day and love, her five-year anniversary of living in the Netherlands, and sending out Beta copies of her book “Flavors of Life” to Beta readers. Read about her experiences, and toast with her to the past, present, and future.

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FernandaMolina

Study Abroad Experiences and Advice from Fernanda Molina

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Tanner C. Knorr conducted an interview with Fernanda Molina on 13 January, 2016. Fernanda is studying linguistics, with an emphasis in ESL teaching, at San Diego State University. She moved to the United States when she was 18 and, since then, her life has been full of wonderful opportunities. She’s had the chance to live in other countries and learn everything that comes with that experience: the language, the culture, the people, etc. She has been forever changed by it and cannot wait for her next international experience. Read more about her study abroad experiences.

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Potatobourekas

10 Jerusalem Treats You Can’t Miss During Your Visit

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Jerusalem is a city that has benefited from a melting pot of immigrants over the years, which means that the city’s food scene is rich with an eclectic, yet sophisticated palette. Especially in the world of food, Jerusalem is at the forefront of Israel’s innovation and contemporary flavor profile. The diversity of the city offers a range of sushi bars, burger joints, Italian and French cuisine, and classic Israeli restaurants. Mordecai Holtz, Director of New Media for ItravelJerusalem, the city’s official tourism office, introduces the 10 (plus one extra) must-try treats when visiting Jerusalem.

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GrandRestaurantKarelV

The Grand History of Hotel Karel V in Utrecht, Netherlands

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On Monday, January 11, my dear friend and fellow author Savannah Grace and I arrived in Utrecht, with her mom Maggie, for the Vakantiebeurs and the #TRLT tweetmeet. We stayed at the five-star Grand Hotel Karel V. Upon our arrival, after settling into our spacious corner room, we received a tour. The hotel is situated in the center of Utrecht, although the hustle and bustle of the city feels far away as you wander around the sprawling property. Overall, our stay was delightful. The history is fascinating, the facilities are wonderful, and it is neat to say we stayed in a place that previously housed a variety of guests, including emperors, kings, and soldiers. Read more about our experience and the history of the property.

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VietnamesePeople

7 Reasons to Visit Vietnam

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Jack Woodring of Endeavorviet spent 14 years in Vietnam, 12 of which he lived in Ho Chi Minh City with his wife and three kids. From the moment he first travelled there, he felt this bond with the country and its people. Over the years, he’s discovered Vietnam is a unique treasure, one full of culture and beauty. In this guest post, Jack discusses why Vietnam is the ultimate cultural destination for travellers and shares seven reasons why Vietnam is worth visiting.

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TRLTTeam

#TRLT Tweet-Meet at Grand Hotel Karel V in Utrecht Huge Success

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On Tuesday, January 12, three of the four #TRLT team members – founder Shane Dallas (@TheTravelCamel), founder Savannah Grace (@Sihpromatum), and host Jessica Lipowski (@JLipowski) – were in the same location: Utrecht, Netherlands. Shane flew in from Kenya for the Vakantiebeurs as a keynote speaker. Savannah and Jessica drove in from Alkmaar and Amsterdam respectively, both to network at the trade show and hear Shane speak. We felt this special occasion called for a celebration: a #TRLT meet-up. The Grand Hotel Karel V graciously hosted our travel event, and the group of 15 was easily accommodated in the Koning Willem I room. Thank you so much to everyone who joined – both online and off-line. Read about the full event here and see the photos.

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